03 KDX winter maintenance

[wvsp612]

Couple noob questions. And yes, I do have the online cyclepedia manual.

I am planning to do some winter maintenance, top end, wheel bearings, suspension linkage, etc.

The wheel bearings are sealed bearings, correct? So no greasing of the bearings required at replacement, right? Manual says to grease the seal, but no mention of greasing the bearings.

I know the linkage bearings are not sealed and will need to be greased and/or replaced and greased.

I assume I should also do the steering stem bearings while I am at it?

Thanks

[Colorado Mike]

Yup.
Yup.
Yup.

If this has never been done before, be ready to replace them all. Also if the fork oil hasn't been changed recently you should do that. Read up on re-springing and re-valving them at the same time.

[wvsp612]

thanks


I replaced the fork springs with heavier fredette springs a couple seasons ago.

I only get to ride 4-5 times per year, and am currently using kouba links KDX2's to lower the rear with the forks slid up 1/2 inch in the clamps. Seems to work great. Seems folks are on both sides of the fence for the kouba links, but so far they are great. I don't do any mx track stuff or serious jumps, so no bottoming out problems. I am also only 5'5" and 165 lbs with all my riding gear.

[KarlP]

I guess I'd not do the wheel bearings unless they show signs of needing replacement. Save your money for the linkage bearings.

I have yet to service a linkage and not find some if not all bearings are toast.

A lot of people pop the seals off new wheel bearings and add grease, then pop the seals back in. I think it is a good thing to do.

[Varmint]

Top end, really? Seems like riding 4-5 times a year on an 03 wouldn't warrant a top end. Are you doing it for good measure or is there something wrong? Just curious. I have an 03 as well.

[fuzzy]

Yeah, I'd skip that....unless your 4-5 times per year have been 8hr days in deep sand.

[wvsp612]

the 2-3 of the 4-5 times per year have been the National dual sport series rides, 80-100 miles per day, then just plunking around with the kids. Mainly doing top end for good measure, bike runs fine. Going to put in some boyesen reeds while I am at it. been reading up on the RB carb and head mods. Thinking about doing those also. Seems the RB mods get rave reviews.